Nov

2024

Kulich’s OT Winner Lifts Sabres Over Ducks in Thrilling 3-2 Victory

Final Score Recap – Buffalo Sabres vs. Anaheim Ducks – November 22, 2024

Score Summary:

Buffalo Sabres: 3
Anaheim Ducks: 2 OT

Key Game Statistics

Shots on Goal:

Buffalo Sabres: 32
Anaheim Ducks: 24

Power Play Performance:

Buffalo Sabres Power Play Goals: 0 out of 2 opportunities
Anaheim Ducks Power Play Goals: 0 out of 2 opportunities

Kulich’s Overtime Heroics Propel Sabres to 3-2 Victory Over Ducks

The Buffalo Sabres displayed resilience and determination in a thrilling 3-2 overtime victory against the Anaheim Ducks. Despite a sluggish start that saw Ducks defenseman Drew Helleson open the scoring with his first goal of the season, the Sabres battled back after falling behind 2-0 early in the second period. Peyton Krebs sparked the comeback with his third goal of the season, slamming home a loose puck to cut the deficit. Jason Zucker then tied the game with just 33 seconds left in the second, scoring on a breakaway for his fifth of the season.

The third period was a defensive stalemate, with neither team able to break through as the referees let the game flow without penalties. The Sabres turned up the heat in overtime, outshooting the Ducks 4-0. Alex Tuch’s timely defensive play at the blue line set up a 2-on-1 rush with Owen Power. While Power’s initial shot was stopped, rookie Jiri Kulich was perfectly positioned to bury the rebound, notching his second goal of the season and sealing the Sabres’ victory.

The win marked a milestone for Buffalo, lifting them above .500 for the first time this season with a record of 10-9-1. Kulich’s game-winning performance highlighted the team’s depth and ability to thrive under pressure, providing momentum as they look to build on their recent success.

Sabres vs. Anaheim Ducks: Period-by-Period Breakdown:

Sabres Struggle Early as Ducks Strike First in Opening Period

The Buffalo Sabres found themselves chasing the game early, as the Anaheim Ducks exploited a lackluster start to take a 1-0 lead in the opening period. Ducks defenseman Drew Helleson delivered the decisive moment, netting his first goal of the season with a precise shot that showcased Anaheim’s opportunistic play.

While the Sabres controlled the faceoff circle with an impressive 81.3% win rate, their territorial advantage failed to materialize on the scoresheet. Buffalo registered 11 shots on goal but struggled to generate high-quality scoring chances, leaving the Ducks’ defense largely untroubled. Heading into the second period, the Sabres will need to elevate their pace and find ways to translate possession into results if they hope to turn the tide.

Sabres vs. Anaheim Ducks: First-Period Goals and Penalties

Sabres Goals: None

Ducks Goals:

Drew Helleson (1)
Assists: T. Zegras (5), L. Carlsson (5)

First Period Penalties:

11:34 – Sabres: Jason Zucker Roughing – Removing opponent’s helmet against Isac Lundestrom
14:15 – Ducks: Brett Leason Delaying Game – Puck over glass

Sabres Rally in Feisty Second Period, Tie Ducks at Two

The second period was packed with drama and energy as the Buffalo Sabres clawed their way back to tie the game at two. Anaheim struck first, extending their lead to 2-0, but the Sabres responded with resilience.

Alex Tuch notched his sixth goal of the season to bring Buffalo back within one. The momentum continued late in the period when Jason Zucker streaked in on a breakaway, netting his fifth goal of the season with just 33 seconds left to level the score.

The period wasn’t just about the goals; it was a physical battle. The Ducks’ big hits sparked two fights, adding to the intensity of the game. The Sabres narrowly outshot Anaheim 9-8 in the period, setting up a thrilling final frame with both teams looking to seize control.

Sabres vs. Anaheim Ducks: Second-Period Goals and Penalties

Sabres Goals:

Alex Tuch (6)
Assists: Unassisted
Jason Zucker (5)
Assists: O. Power (12)

Ducks Goals:

Isac Lundestrom (3)
Assists: R. Johnston (3), O. Zellweger (5)

Second Period Penalties:

08:14 – Ducks: Radko Gudas Fighting against Connor Clifton
08:14 – Sabres: Connor Clifton Fighting against Radko Gudas
12:01 – Sabres: Zach Benson Roughing against Jansen Harkins – 4-minute penalty
12:01 – Ducks: Jansen Harkins Roughing against Zach Benson
19:34 – Ducks: Alex Killorn Roughing against Peyton Krebs

Kulich’s OT Heroics Lift Sabres to Victory Over Ducks

The Buffalo Sabres battled through a tight, scoreless third period and emerged victorious in overtime, defeating the Anaheim Ducks 3-2 in a gritty, hard-fought contest. Despite being outshot 10-8 in the third, the Sabres held firm defensively as the referees let the players dictate the game with no penalties called throughout the period.

Overtime belonged to Buffalo, who outshot Anaheim 4-0 and created numerous quality scoring chances. With exactly one minute remaining, Alex Tuch made a brilliant defensive play at the Sabres’ blue line, sparking a 2-on-1 break with Owen Power. Although Ducks goaltender stood tall, robbing Power on the initial shot, rookie Jiri Kulich pounced on the rebound, burying it for his second goal of the season.

The game-winner marked a milestone for Buffalo, as the Sabres climbed above .500 for the first time this season, improving to 10-9-1.

Sabres vs. Anaheim Ducks: Third-Period Goals and Penalties

Sabres Goals:

Jiri Kulich (2) (PPG)
Assists: A. Tuch (14), O. Power (12)

Ducks Goals: None

Third Period Penalties:

None

Three Stars of the Game

1. Juri Kulich – G: 1 | A: 0 | P: 1
Jiri Kulich rose to the occasion in overtime, scoring the game-winning goal with a heads-up rebound effort that sealed the Sabres’ 3-2 victory. The goal marked his second of the season and proved to be the defining moment in a game.

2. Rasmus Dahlin – G: 0 | A: 0 | P: 0
While Rasmus Dahlin didn’t make it onto the scoresheet, his impact was undeniable. Logging heavy minutes, Dahlin contributed with four shots on goal and two crucial blocks, providing stability on the blue line and driving play in key moments.

3. John Gibson – GAA: 2.81 | SV%: .906
Despite the loss, John Gibson was a standout performer for the Ducks, keeping them alive with several crucial saves throughout regulation and overtime. His denial of Owen Power’s shot in the extra frame nearly forced a shootout. Gibson’s efforts in stopping 29 of 32 shots gave Anaheim a chance to win.

Condensed Game Highlights

Next Game: Sabres vs. San Jose Sharks

The Buffalo Sabres wrap up their West Coast road trip with a Saturday night showdown against the San Jose Sharks on November 23rd. Puck drops at 8:00 PM EST as the Sabres look to carry their momentum against a struggling Sharks team, currently sitting at 6-11-5.

What were your thoughts on tonight’s game? Share your insights and season predictions in the comments below! Don’t forget to follow us on X (formerly Twitter) @SabresInsight for ongoing Sabres coverage, game analysis, and exclusive updates as the season unfolds. Be sure to check back regularly for more in-depth Sabres content!